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Choosing the Best School Shoes for Your Child’s Foot Health

Jul 29, 2025 | General | 0 comments

School children running into school with their new school shoes

Back-to-school shopping often means tick-boxes for uniforms, stationery, and bags. But when it comes to school shoes, it’s not just about style or brand—it’s about protecting your child’s growing feet.

Children wear school shoes for 30+ hours a week, so choosing the right pair is crucial. Poorly fitting shoes can lead to discomfort, long-term foot issues, and a lack of focus in class. As podiatrists, we see the impact every day—so here’s how to make an informed choice.

Why Children’s Feet Need Extra Care

Children’s feet aren’t just small adult feet—they’re soft, pliable, and rapidly growing. Their bones are still forming and can be easily misshapen by tight or unsupportive footwear.

Ill-fitting or poor-quality school shoes can contribute to a range of foot problems, including:

  • Blisters and corns
  • Ingrown toenails
  • Flat feet or fallen arches
  • Foot fatigue and heel pain
  • Bunions or hammertoes in later years

Children go through growth spurts, sometimes needing new shoes every 3–6 months. Keeping up with this growth ensures their footwear supports healthy development instead of hindering it.

Why Proper Shoe Fitting Matters More Than Ever

A survey by The College of Podiatry found that over 50% of UK children are wearing the wrong size shoes. Many parents skip professional fitting due to time or cost, but a quick fitting session can prevent months of discomfort—or even injury.

Top Tips for Fitting:

  • Always measure both feet (they’re often slightly different sizes)
  • Try shoes on in the afternoon when feet are slightly swollen (like they will be after a school day)
  • Leave a thumb’s width between the longest toe and the end of the shoe
  • Check width as well as length—too narrow is just as bad as too long

Don’t forget PE trainers or sports shoes also need fitting. Sports often involve fast changes in direction, so fit, grip, and ankle support are essential to avoid injury

What to Look for in a Good Pair of School Shoes

When browsing the shelves (or shopping online), keep these must-have features in mind:

  • Leather uppers
    Tough yet breathable, leather helps prevent sweating and foot odour while standing up to playground wear and tear.
  • Secure fastenings
    Laces, Velcro straps or buckles stop feet from sliding around and ensure consistent support throughout the day. Avoid slip-ons for younger children.
  • Rounded toe boxes
    A rounded front mirrors the natural shape of the foot, allowing toes to move and develop normally. Avoid narrow or pointy styles, which can cause problems.
  • Snug, supportive heel backs
    The back of the shoe should hold the heel firmly without rubbing or being too tight. It helps stabilise the foot and prevent overpronation.
  • Flexible yet cushioned soles
    Rubber or EVA soles provide shock absorption, reduce fatigue, and help grip slippery school floors.
  • Low, stable heels
    Heels should be no higher than 4cm. Anything more can unbalance your child, increase pressure on the forefoot, and contribute to posture issues.

Do I Need to Spend a Lot on School Shoes?

We understand school shoes can be expensive—but cheap, poorly made shoes often wear out faster and can cause more harm than good.

Avoid:

  • Fashion brands prioritising style over support
  • Soft canvas shoes with no structure
  • Second-hand shoes (they’ve already moulded to someone else’s foot shape)

Trusted brands to consider:

  • Clarks – known for foot-friendly designs and in-store fitting
  • Start-Rite – podiatrist-endorsed, high-quality options for all ages
  • Geox – breathable soles and supportive styles
  • Ricosta – lightweight, durable, and podiatrist-approved in many cases

How to Break in New School Shoes

Even well-fitted shoes can cause rubbing if worn for long periods straight out of the box. We recommend:

  • Wearing them at home for 1–2 hours a day in the week before school starts
  • Checking for red marks or blisters
  • Using socks with padding at the heel or toe area
  • Applying barrier cream to hotspots if needed

Check Feet and Shoes Regularly

Don’t assume once the shoes are bought, the job’s done. Regular checks help catch problems early:

  • Inspect the inside of the shoe for wear, dampness, or damage
  • Feel your child’s toes and heels for any rubbing, redness, or cuts
  • Ask your child if their shoes feel too tight or loose—especially after a holiday or growth spurt

When to See a Podiatrist

If your child complains about:

  • Persistent pain or limping
  • Uneven shoe wear
  • Tripping often
  • Visible abnormalities like flat feet or turned-in ankles

…it’s time for a professional opinion.

At Feet By Pody, our friendly London podiatrists offer:

  • Children’s foot health checks
  • Custom orthotics for growth-related conditions
  • Treatment for common issues like verrucae, athlete’s foot, or toenail problems
  • Expert advice on footwear and growth stages

We’re here to help keep little feet on the right path.

Book a Children’s Foot Health Check Today

Concerned about your child’s foot development or want advice on school shoes? Contact Feet By Pody on 0207 099 6657 or book an appointment online.

We’re happy to help your child start the school year on the right foot.